Barcode Label Printer Operational FAQ (frequently asked questions)

These questions arise through the infield use of the equipment. Often arising when a fault is discovered or print quality is not acceptable.  This will assist in field diagnostics. 

 

1. The printer skips labels when running why ? 

This occurs as the sensor does not recognise the  inter-label gap. Firstly check the sensor for dust and debris and clean with towlette provided.  Check the indexing sensor is correctly set.  If this fault appears after a new batch of material is being used check the colour of the backer to make sure it has not changed nor has the ribbon type. For example .If using honey backers specify honey to your supplier as printer settings are calibrated accordingly. 

2. The printed barcodes don’t read what’s the problem? 

There are many reasons for this the most common being a “blown element” in the print-head that changes the barcode configuration by virtue it is not working. This is easily detectable as a white line will appear on the printed label.   All printers have a test pattern and this should be conducted. Thoroughly clean the print-head first then conduct a test pattern routine.  If the test pattern shows no fault then there may be a mismatch between the barcode printed and the reading device. To resolve verify the reading configurations set in the reading device. This is particularly important when the barcodes are being read by a fixed position scanner. 

3. The printer prints intermittently why is this happening? 

By far the most common cause of this problem is a loose communication cable between the host and the printer itself. To correct ensure cables are correctly fitting and positioned from damage. 

 

4. The printer is printing rubbish why is this so? 

This problem occurs when firmware resident in the printer has become corrupted. This can easily be reinstalled. Telephone for instructions. 

 

5. How do I install the USB plug and play print driver? 

The following steps should be taken.

- Locate the appropriate printer driver then extract to a folder on your computer hard drive.

- Plug in the USB cable and turn printer on.

- Follow the new hardware found wizard box that appears on the screen.

- Upon reaching installation select the manufacturer and model of your printer

- Click “ have Disc” then browse to locate the directory where you copied the Driver (as per first step above)

- Complete the installation wizard

- Do a windows test page print to verify all working ok 
 

6. Is there anything I need to be aware of when using a serial communication port ? 

Yes. The communication settings between the printer and the host must be identical. While settings do vary between models the most common is 9600 baud , 8 data bits , 1 stop bit , parity = none. Settings are documented in the manuals or available on line. 

 

7. When downloading a windows driver which link do I use? 
Your PC will be operating on 32 bit or 64 bit. Choose the link that matches your PC. 

 

8. Have I loaded the ribbon correctly? 
Each printer has a different ribbon path and ribbon phasing requirements.   Follow the instructions on the printer itself or refer to the manual. Ribbons have two sides the coating is only on one side and this must be the face that is in direct contact with the material being printed. 

9.The paper runs non stop why? 
This will be because the sensor that determines the position of the label (or tag) does not recognise the sensing co-ordinates.  Firstly clean the sensor and make sure the sensor is lined up correctly so that it can read one of the following …interlabel gap, eye mark, tag notch or tag hole depending on material type being used. Check that there has been no change to the materials you are using and make sure the paper path in the printer has been correctly followed. 

 

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